Author: Kate Hordern

Richard Bassett‘s new book, MARIA THERESA: EMPRESS: The Making of the Austrian Enlightenment, was published by Yale University Press on 25 February 2025.  This is a gripping study of one of the world’s most influential leaders, revealing how Maria Theresa confounded gendered expectations and left a lasting mark on Europe.

“Assured and revisionist … an impressively researched book … Maria Theresa emerges as an impressive if absolutist monarch, committed to bringing her Catholic faith to bear on her rule and making things better for those living in her lands.  Less Queen of the Night; more Queen of the Light.”  The Times

“An absolute tour de force.” Nancy M. Wingfield

UNDER THE BLACK MOUNTAIN by K.T. Fitzpatrick was published in audio by Bolinda on 1 May, the first of the Eva Willoughby series set in 1919 Australia.  

“A sharply written, fast-moving mystery set in a wonderfully evoked post-Gallipoli Australia. A deeply pleasurable read.” Andrew Miller, author of the Costa Book of the Year winning PURE

“Utterly enthralling.” NetGalley reviewer 5 stars

Apollo/Head of Zeus publish STEEL RIVER: Walking the Tees – a Journey through Nature in a Human World  by Steve Nicholls on 6 March 2025. This is an evocative and richly informative account of a journey along the river Tees, presenting its valley as a microcosm of an environmentally damaged and endangered world.

“The north-east has long been a place of proud industry. Beneath the sweat and grime, however, the region’s biodiversity has taken a battering for generations. In STEEL RIVER, Nicholls deftly examines whether nature – and by extension, humanity – can ever truly heal and regenerate.”  Sally Coulthard author of A SHORT HISTORY OF THE WORLD ACCORDING TO SHEEP

“An admirable book… Nicholls has a powerful message for us: that environmental degradation and social inequality are twin facets of the rush to rob the planet of its resources.”   Max Adams author of THE KING IN THE NORTH

Laura Starkey‘s fourth novel, LOVE OFF SCRIPT, a workplace romantic comedy where sparks fly, was published by Bonnier Embla on 11 March 2025.

“This book was completely captivating, brilliantly written, and beautifully romantic from start to finish. I loved it!”  Emma Cooper, author of THE ONE BEFORE THE ONE